A special military unit in Madagascar has announced that it has taken control of the country, marking a dramatic turn in the East African nation’s ongoing political unrest.
The declaration came after weeks of nationwide protests and the parliament’s move to impeach President Andry Rajoelina.
Colonel Michael Randrianirina, commander of the elite CAPSAT unit, made the announcement on Tuesday outside the presidential palace, stating that the constitution had been suspended. Moments later, crowds flooded the streets of the capital in celebration as soldiers marched back to their base in what appeared to be a show of victory.
The presidency, however, condemned the move, describing it as “an attempted coup,” and maintained that President Rajoelina “remains fully in office.”
Reports earlier suggested that Rajoelina had not been seen in public since last Wednesday and had possibly fled the country as protests calling for his resignation intensified. He was expected to address the nation on Monday evening but cancelled the appearance after soldiers allegedly threatened to take over state television.
Opposition leader Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko told Reuters that Rajoelina left Madagascar on Sunday following reports of military defections.
In a late-night broadcast on Monday, Rajoelina confirmed that he was in a “safe place” for his protection but did not disclose his location. He insisted he would not resign, stating that he was working to “find solutions” to the crisis and would not allow the country to “destroy itself.”
